Chinese New Year

Welcome in the Chinese New Year in London with a packed season of events across London and huge celebrations in Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square.

Chinese New Year 2010, the Year of the Tiger, falls on 14 February. The London Chinatown Chinese Association celebration takes place on 21 Febuary.

Chinese New Year in London Highlights

There are loads of events to celebrate Chinese New Year in London. The biggest parties take place in London's Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square.

Trafalgar Square usually hosts a welcoming ceremony and parade to launch Chinese New Year celebrations in London.

As well as traditional Chinese dragon and lion dances, you can expect to see a diverse range of live performers, including singers and dancers from China.

London's Leicester Square usually hosts its own colourful celebrations, with firecrackers, fireworks and an array of authentic Chinese food served from restaurants and stalls in nearby Chinatown.

Chinese New Year Events in London

Many of London's museums and galleries get involved in the Chinese New Year season of celebrations, including the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).

Last year, London celebrated the year of the Ox, and a Variety Show of acrobatic and martial arts performances travelled to three London venues.

Celebrations in London continued with the London Chinese Film Festival and many of London's Chinese restaurants held special events and banquets.

About Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is a huge festival among Chinese communities in London and across the world.

Based on the lunar and solar calendars, the actual date of Chinese New Year varies, but always falls between late January and mid February.

Each year in the Chinese calendar is represented by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, with 2010 being the year of the Tiger.

Watch this space for details of London's 2010 Chinese New Year celebrations!